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Agriculture and food sectors: priorities in South Sudan

The agriculture and food security sector will be main targets for the European Commission (EC) in South Sudan. €80 million aid package will be allocated to improving rural infrastructure; boosting productivity by providing easier access to services and land; support to small-holders and strengthening water management for sustainable use. Member States may soon announce support in complementary sectors.On the eve of the International Engagement Conference for South Sudan, which will take place in Washington on 14-15 December, European Commissioner Piebalgs has said that, as he confirmed during his last visit to the country in November, "the EC will play its share and will act in sectors where it has a high impact and a real added value. Furthermore, he added that this new allocation "is proof of the EU's long-term commitment to South Sudan's development, following its independence in July 2011". As a matter of fact the EU recently agreed to provide €200 million to South Sudan, focusing on specific priority sectors such as agriculture development, health, education, and the rule of law. €80 million out of this envelope will be allocated to the rural development/food security sector. EU aid to South Sudan is in line with the 2011-2013 South Sudan Development Plan and the South Sudan Aid Strategy.